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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common, painful, progressive condition that is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist area. Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling sensation in all the fingers except little finger; pain and burning sensation in hand and wrist that may radiate up the arm and elbow; and weakness in hand with diminished grip strength Exact causes of the condition are not known. However certain factors increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome and they include congenital abnormalities, repetitive motion of hand and wrists, fractures and sprains, hormonal imbalance, and other medical conditions such as hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, obesity, gout, overactive pituitary gland, or the presence of a cyst or tumor in the canal.

Carpal tunnel syndrome may be treated using conservative approaches or surgery. The conservative treatments include:

Treating underlying medical conditions

Immobilization of the hand and wrist with a splint or wrist brace for 4-6 weeks

Rest the hand for 2 weeks or more

Ice packs to avoid swelling

Avoid activities that tend to worsen the symptoms

Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections

Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with carpal tunnel release surgery. Traditional surgery involves up to a 2- inch incision in the palm and wrist area, whereas endoscopic surgery involves one or two half-an-inch incisions and the use of an endoscope. During the surgery, the transverse carpal ligament will be dissected to release the pressure on the median nerve and enlarge the carpal tunnel. Your surgeon will decide which options are best for you based on your general and medical conditions.

Your surgeon may suggest you to practice certain post-operative procedures for better recovery and to avoid further complications.

Elevate the hand above heart level to reduce swelling

A splint may be worn

Ice packs to the surgical area to reduce swelling

Keep the surgical incision clean and dry; cover the area with plastic wrap when bathing or showering

Physical therapy may be ordered to restore wrist strength

Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing

The majority of patients suffer no complications following carpal tunnel release surgery. However some patients may suffer from pain, infections, scarring, and nerve damage causing weakness, paralysis, or loss of sensation and stiffness in the hand and wrist area.